A new celebrity version of The Weakest Link is in the pipeline, hosted by comedian Romesh Ranganathan. The long running BBC quiz show was previously fronted by Anne Robinson.
The Weakest Link ran from the year 2000 to 2012, racking up over 1,690 episodes. It also earned Robinson a reputation as a formidable host for her harsh put-downs.
Announcement of its return comes on the same day as she debuts in her new role hosting Channel 4’s Countdown. She is the first female host of the daytime favourite, replacing The Apprentice’s Nick Hewer.
Ranganathan says it is an “honour” to bring back “a TV institution”. He thinks Anne was an “amazing host”, and describes it as an “anxiety-inducing privilege” to step into her shoes. The comedian hopes fans of the show are happy with the new outing, and that it can attract a new audience too.
The new series, filming in Glasgow, will run as 12 45 minute episodes, airing in a primetime BBC One slot. It will feature a variety of celebrities attempting to correctly answer general knowledge questions for a chance to stay in the game.
Robinson, aged 76, says the new show is “very different” to the one she hosted. As a male comedian, the new host will have a different approach to the original.
Success of The Weakest Link
The Weakest Link is one of the most successful international franchises to come from the BBC, with versions of the show broadcasting in over 100 countries. It has always been a firm favourite with audiences, and Robinson revered as a terrific host.
The show last aired in 2017, with Robinson returning to host a special charity edition for Children in Need.
The BBC’s director of entertainment, Kate Phillips, says Romesh will “bring his own unique style of presenting to one of TV’s most memorable roles”, and she can’t wait to see it.
43 year old Ranganathan is known for Bafta award winning shows The Misadventures of Romesh Ranganathan and the Ranganation. Last week he became full time host of Sky’s sports based panel show A League Of Their Own. Filming for the new series begins next month at Elstree Studios in Hertfordshire. It is due to air on Sky One in August.
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